Study Highlights Health Risks of Gender-Affirming Care for Biological Males

A new study published in Discover Mental Health highlights significant health risks associated with gender-affirming care for biological males who identify as transgender. The research identifies both well-known and newly identified adverse outcomes linked to the use of estrogen and other feminizing hormones.
The study notes that while activists claim such treatments prevent suicide, some studies suggest suicidal thoughts may increase among those taking these drugs. The authors emphasize that evidence supporting the benefits of these interventions is often of low certainty, while risks like infertility are well-documented.
The research also reveals emerging risks, including a higher likelihood of cardiovascular issues, blood clots, stroke, and autoimmune diseases. Men taking estrogen face an elevated risk of diabetes, testicular cancer, and breast cancer. Long-term studies have shown that transgender women on hormones have a significantly higher mortality rate compared to the general population, with leading causes of death including heart disease, cancer, and suicide.
The authors stress the urgent need for systematic, long-term studies to better understand these risks and improve patient care. Earlier this month, the Department of Health and Human Services published a report finding extremely weak evidence supporting the benefits of puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, or surgeries for children with gender dysphoria.

Published: 6/26/2025